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Entrepreneurship Summer Academy

June 7 - June 12, 2026

Overview

The Entrepreneurship Summer Academy is a one-week residential program for Arizona high school students interested in developing business and leadership skills. Participants gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurship through team-based projects, site visits, and structured instruction from University of Arizona faculty, students, and business professionals.

The program is jointly offered by the University of Arizona’s Freedom Center and the McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship at the Eller College of Management.

Program Objectives

  • Introduce students to fundamental concepts in entrepreneurship, ethics, and economic freedom

  • Develop practical skills in communication, teamwork, and business planning

  • Offer exposure to real-world business environments and public policy institutions

  • Encourage critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity in applied settings

Key Activities

  • Instruction in Intuit’s “Design for Delight” methodology for user-focused business design

  • Mentorship from University of Arizona undergraduates studying entrepreneurship

  • Visits to local businesses and the Arizona State Capitol

  • Guest speakers, including policymakers and Arizona entrepreneurs

  • Team-based development of original business ideas

  • Culminating “Shark Tank”-style pitch competition, with awards for top-performing teams

Eligibility

The program is open to current 9th-12th grade students. No prior business experience is required. Participants are selected based on interest, motivation, and potential to benefit from the program.

Application Process

The application for the the 2026 cohort is OPEN.

Dates: June 7-12, 2026
Location: University of Arizona McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship
Cost: $500 (includes housing and meals); discount available for students of UA faculty/staff

$50 registration fee due upon acceptance to camp.

Apply Now

Scholarships

Don’t let financial barriers hold you back from achieving your goals. Scholarships can be used to cover housing and camp costs, making this opportunity accessible to a broad range of students.

Click the button or contact robinp@arizona.edu for more details.

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